Overview
Walcott Substation is a 345 kV electrical substation operated by MidAmerican Energy in Walcott, Iowa, United States. It plays a key role in the regional transmission grid.
Walcott Substation is a high-voltage electrical substation located in Walcott, Iowa, United States. Operated by MidAmerican Energy, it operates at 345 kV, a standard transmission voltage level for bulk power transfer across the Midwest. The substation is part of the broader interconnected grid serving the region. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards for the U.S. bulk power system. As a 345 kV substation, it is critical for maintaining grid stability and integrating generation resources, including wind energy from Iowa's substantial wind farms. Walcott Substation supports the local community by ensuring reliable electricity delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the Walcott area and beyond. Its strategic location along transmission corridors enhances grid resilience and facilitates power exchange across state lines.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of eastern Iowa, characterized by agricultural land and dispersed settlements. High-voltage infrastructure like this can impact local ecosystems through electromagnetic fields and land use, though modern design minimizes such effects. The region's growing wind energy capacity relies on substations like Walcott to connect renewable generation to the grid, supporting environmental goals.
Frequently asked questions
Walcott Substation is located in Walcott, Iowa, United States, at approximately latitude 41.565161 and longitude -90.811751.
Walcott Substation operates at 345 kV, which is a standard high-voltage transmission level used for long-distance power transfer in the United States.
Walcott Substation is operated by MidAmerican Energy, a major utility company serving customers in Iowa and surrounding states.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, Walcott Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and security.
Walcott Substation plays a critical role in transmitting electricity from generation sources to load centers, supporting reliable power supply for the Walcott area and integrating renewable energy from Iowa's wind farms.